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Inett Jackson, a 55-year-old resident of Greenville, has been named the Greenville Advocate Hero of the Week for her dedicated work running a transitional home through her ministry, His Hands and Feet. Jackson’s journey to this point has been marked by significant challenges, including addiction, incarceration, and personal tragedy.

Jackson’s struggles with addiction began at a young age, leading to over 30 years of involvement with drugs and multiple stints in prison.

“I’ve been to prison three times,” Jackson shared. “The first time, I got 9 months for drugs and assault on a police officer. I was resisting arrest.”

During one of her prison terms, Jackson experienced a turning point. She was being ministered to by the Antioch East Butler County Corrections Ministry, and said the experience changed her life forever. 

“My life had been spiraling downhill for a while but during my last prison sentence, my son accidentally shot and killed my daughter,” Jackson revealed. “It was like I woke up from a long sleep. Reality set in and I knew I had to do better. I started reaching for God.”

After her release, Jackson returned to prison, this time as a partner with Antioch East, to minister to inmates.

“I lost my youngest sister and oldest daughter both to drug addiction, but God allowed me to break free from being a slave to addiction,” Jackson reflected. “I like to think of myself like Harriet Tubman, A Woman Called Moses. I know the escape route to freedom from active addiction, and his name is Jesus. I’m here to help lead anyone who desires freedom. The lie is dead. We do recover.”

Jackson has since dedicated herself to helping others break free from addiction. For the last 10 years, she has worked as a Quality Control Inspector for Hwashin, one of Hyundai’s top suppliers. In 2021, she began running a transitional home for women recovering from drug addiction, many of whom are exiting the prison system. Jackson is also the co-founder of the Narcotics Anonymous group, We Do Recover, and teaches youth Bible study at Perfecting Holiness non-denominational church.

Recina Coleman, the house mother of the transitional home, works closely with Jackson and attests to her dedication. 

“This is her heart’s passion, to share the gospel and to help these women with rehab and recovery… and she’s not paid for any of this. The house gives them a safe space,” Coleman noted. “She learns their stories and helps give them the tools they need to reenter society.”

Recently, Jackson received a full pardon from the state, clearing her record. She acknowledges the road has been long but said that she always puts God first and trusts the process. 

“In 2014 I was homeless. By 2016, I was a homeowner. My relationships are restored with my whole family and I’m just enjoying living my life,” Jackson expressed. “Now, I take pleasure in working with the lost. These are not bad people; they just made some bad decisions.”

Jackson’s story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the power of faith, resilience, and the potential for redemption. Her commitment to helping others find freedom from addiction and rebuild their lives is a testament to her strength and compassion.